Bradley replaces Steven Caldwell, who had captained the club since July 2013. According to TSN, head coach Greg Vanney called Caldwell, who is entering the final year of his contract, with the news on Monday.

Bradley is preparing to enter his second year with Toronto FC, following a deal that brought the U.S. midfielder to Major League Soccer from AS Roma of Italy's Serie A.

Questions about the Toronto captaincy have been swirling for months, but Caldwell was hopeful he would remain the leader.

"I love being captain of this club," Caldwell said last month. "I've captained every team I've played for since I was 15. It's something I relish and enjoy. I think I'm quite good at it. It's a great honor to be captain of any club. I don't treat it lightly and I love being captain. I hope to stay."

As recently as last week, Caldwell was leading Toronto during training, while Bradley was with the U.S. men's national team. Bradley helped the U.S. defeat Panama in a friendly on Sunday after scoring on an Olimpico in the 28th minute.